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Voltage light came on then radio went out. Then RPMs increased but won't accelerate forward.

Tiny
WANDRWIZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 254,000 MILES
I have a 2003 Grnd Caravan, 3.3 flex. I was driving on the interstate when my voltage warning light came on and rpm indicator went to 3500 and my radio went off and on and finally off. I couldn't accelerate and I pulled over to the shoulder and stopped my car. I started it up again and got back on the highway and made it to a nearby Wal Mart only traveling in 2nd gear. I bought a battery thinking my battery (which was just past the 2 year mark) was bad and causing problems with the computer. Installed it in the parking lot and made it back to the highway but the voltage warning light came on again and I couldn't get out of 2nd gear. I made it back home but need to find a solution as this is my work vehicle.I made a $5 donation today.
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Thursday, October 4th, 2012 AT 8:03 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
Have the alternator and charging tested. Check all fuses and ensure none is bad.
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Thursday, October 4th, 2012 AT 8:14 PM
Tiny
WANDRWIZ
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
And the alternator would affect the transmission where I can't get into the drive gear? I will check though. I assume that I should read about 13-14 volts DC with the van running if its a good alternator? My radio now works fine.
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Thursday, October 4th, 2012 AT 8:26 PM
Tiny
WANDRWIZ
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
I just read the voltage. I am only getting 11.75 volts across the battery posts while the van is running. So it is the alternator then.
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Thursday, October 4th, 2012 AT 8:38 PM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
The PCM relies on the correct voltage to provide the correct command to the various sensors. Without sufficnet voltage, the shift solenoids etc would not function correctly and result in erractic shifting.

Yes, you need to have the alternator checked.
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Thursday, October 4th, 2012 AT 8:55 PM

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